Sandro del Prete

Studies of an Impossible Topographic Distrortion

This blueprint depicts an impossible monastery fortress. When the ladder is drawn in, the fortress seems to become impregnable. In the initial draft, the monastery hangs over a deep abyss and is secured by a single nail, while the supporting columns and foundation are resting on a parchment scroll, which symbolizes intellectual insight. A three-dimensional object is presented in a two-dimensional way, projecting itself into the fourth dimension. Here, none of the concepts of direction apply, because a change in direction implies movement, and movement presupposes time.